igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic Quartz-Feldspar Rock)
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs). Color: White, gray, pink with black specks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Structure: Massive, interlocking crystals.
- Hardness
- 6-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- White, gray, pink with black specks
- Luster
- Dull to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-7 (Mohs). Color: White, gray, pink with black specks. Luster: Dull to vitreous. Texture: Phaneritic (coarse-grained). Structure: Massive, interlocking crystals.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow crystallization of magma below Earth's surface (plutonic). Found in continental crust, often dating back hundreds of millions to billions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively used in construction for countertops, floor tiles, paving stones, curbing, monuments, and as crushed stone for road base.
Geological facts
Granite makes up a large portion of the Earth's continental crust. Mount Rushmore is carved into a massive granite batholith in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'salt and pepper' appearance and visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (white/pink), and mica (black). Commonly found in mountain ranges and riverbeds.
